DESCENDANT OF THE CRANE
by Joan He
Release Date: April 2, 2019; Albert Whitman Company
From Goodreads:
Tyrants cut out hearts. Rulers sacrifice their own.
Princess Hesina of Yan has always been eager to shirk the responsibilities of the crown, but when her beloved father is murdered, she’s thrust into power, suddenly the queen of an unstable kingdom. Determined to find her father’s killer, Hesina does something desperate: she engages the aid of a soothsayer—a treasonous act, punishable by death... because in Yan, magic was outlawed centuries ago.
Using the information illicitly provided by the sooth, and uncertain if she can trust even her family, Hesina turns to Akira—a brilliant and alluring investigator who’s also a convicted criminal with secrets of his own. With the future of her kingdom at stake, can Hesina find justice for her father? Or will the cost be too high?
In this shimmering Chinese-inspired fantasy, debut author Joan He introduces a determined and vulnerable young heroine struggling to do right in a world brimming with deception.
How can something be as exciting as it is heartbreaking? Because that's exactly what this book is. It's an addictive blend of intrigue, excitement, mystery and heartbreaking, suspenseful twists.
Descendant of the Crane does not only boast a gorgeous cover but an intoxicating writing as well. I admit the beginning was a bit slow for me but at the 12% mark, shit hit the fan real fast, the pace picked up and I just loved every breathtaking page of this wonderfully written Chinese inspired story. And the last few chapters?! I. DIED. I was not prepared for the brilliance that is this book.
I LOVE Hesina's character. She went from a vulnerable, naive, idealistic princess to an unapologetic but conscientious queen that will do anything for her kingdom. She's loyal and steadfast with an unwavering belief to do what's good and right.
I also love how everything is not as it seems and everyone is not who you first think they are. The complex relationships especially that between Hesina and her mother will make you question everything. I don't want to spoil anything but I just have to say I DID NOT SEE THAT ONE COMING. There was a lot about this book that caught me off guard. And I hope there will be more of that in the sequel. And Rou! I hope there will be more of Rou! And Caiyan! And Akira. AKIRA.
I do have one complain. Actually make that two. First, I don't feel like what happened to Lilian was necessary. I'm not going to elaborate on this but I think it could have gone another way. And second (although really this is just my romantic side talking), I'm all for subtle, slow burn romance but.. that was it?!? I. Can't.
I'm so happy to say that Descendant of the Crane lived up to its hype. It's a complicated woven story with diverse characters and stunning writing. Is it time for a re-read yet?!
I received an e-arc via Edelweiss+ to read and review.
Seems interesting! *_* And I love the cover art :)
ReplyDeleteI do too! =)
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